Nathaly Trujillo, Dental Assisting Grad, Never Forgot Positive Childhood Memories of Visits To The Dentist

Nathaly Trujillo was born in El Salvador. She came to the US when she was five years old with her parents. First, they settled in Pasadena, then moved to Pomona and eventually to Phelan where she lives now and when she attended the SJVC Dental Assisting program at SJVC Hesperia.

As a child, Nathaly remembers going to the dentist and what always came with the visit: the “toys and stuff,” which helped her get through the necessary check-up and leave with a smile on her face. That positive experience never faded for her. The way dentists’ offices approach children the first time they have their teeth checked has a huge impact, and has proven to be a positive and long-lasting memory that informed her decision of what to do for a career.

What inspired you to work in the Dentistry field?

It was one of the first things I considered. As a little kid I was always interested in teeth.

How did you find the program at SJVC?

My sister went to SJVC for a Medical certification. She’s working nearby now at a hospital.

What was one of your favorite parts of the Dental Assisting program?

My teacher, Brandi Turner, made everything so much fun. She made sure you were entertained in order to stay focused.

What was challenging?

It was challenging to test my own skills. I needed a lot of help with hands-on skills so I practiced a lot – on dolls with teeth, and even on my family and friends who would be my guinea pigs.

I’m glad they cooperated! Any other challenges?

If I ever needed anything else, there was always someone there to help.

Do you have any long-term goals now?

I’m working right now at Apple Valley where I started in April ’24, so I’m coming up on my one-year anniversary. My first goal is to get an RDAEF (Registered Dental Assistant with Extended Functions). That means I’ll be able to do more things like fillings, impressions, crowns, that kind of thing.

Where do you see yourself in five or ten years?

First, I want to get stable so I can be more independent, go out on my own. Eventually I want to buy a house. I was able to get my license; I’m currently an RDA (Registered Dental Assistant), which helps me to move around for better jobs.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank at SJVC for getting you started?

I am just very thankful for the school.

What would you say to any reader to give them advice on how to successfully graduate as you have?

Just make sure you have the time and give your all to the program. Stay focused and determined!

Congratulations, and best of luck!

Thank you.